Plain answers about roofing in Concrete
Most roofing questions here land in four places: what to do when water is coming in, why roofs stay damp and mossy, what permits and registration apply in Washington, and how to compare roofers. Short version: photograph the damage, call, and get the quote in writing after an inspection.
- Roof repair and replacement
- Wet-season moss, leaks and storm damage
- Connected to a local roofer
Get a fast quote
Fastest: call (833) 751-2102. Or send this and we call you back.
When water is coming in
How do I find where a roof leak starts?
From inside, follow the stain uphill and check the attic for damp insulation, dark boards or daylight. Chimneys, valleys, vents, skylights and wall joints are the usual entry points. The roofer then confirms it from the roof, since the stain and the opening rarely line up.
Should I put a tarp on the roof myself?
Better not. A wet roof is a hard place to work, and a loose tarp can tear shingles or blow off. Contain the water inside, photograph the damage from the ground and ask a roofer about a temporary cover. See emergency roof tarping.
Why did a leak appear only after snow melted?
Meltwater finds weak flashing and worn valleys that rain sheds easily, and snow melting on a warm roof can refreeze at the eaves. Mention the snow on the call. The page on snow load and roof care has more.
Moss, wet seasons and wear
Is moss on my roof a problem?
It can be. Oregon State University Extension says moss holds moisture and debris against roofing and can lift asphalt shingles. On a sound roof it is a maintenance task. Read the guide on roof moss in the Skagit Valley.
Can I pressure wash moss off my shingles?
No. OSU warns that pressure washing can damage shingles by stripping granules and driving water under the tabs. Hand removal in dry weather is gentler. If zinc is used, avoid it on roofs with copper gutters or flashing.
How much rain does Concrete get?
Climate tables give roughly 70 to 75 inches of precipitation a year, with November the wettest month at about 12 inches, and about 18 inches of snow. Summers are drier, which is why autumn is when hidden roof problems show.
Storms, trees and snow
What should I do first after a windstorm?
Make everyone safe, stay off the roof, photograph the damage from the ground and inside, contain any water and call. If a wire is involved, call your electric utility or 911 first. The guide on storm-damaged roofs sets out the order.
Who removes a tree that has fallen on the house?
Usually a tree service, which has the saws and rigging. A roofer then covers and repairs the roof. Do not cut a tree that is resting on a building. See fallen tree roof damage.
What snow load does my roof need?
Skagit County publishes design snow load by parcel on a mapping layer, and Snohomish and Whatcom counties set their own. This site prints no figure for any town, so ask the county office that covers your address.
Permits, registration and choosing a roofer
Does a repair need a permit, or only a replacement?
It depends on the county or city, and this site could not confirm the rules. Some other Washington cities require a permit when sheathing or all roofing is replaced. Ask the building department that covers your address.
What does a Washington roofer have to be registered for?
Washington requires construction contractors, roofing among them, to register with the Department of Labor & Industries, and to be bonded and insured. You can check any contractor on L&I's verification page. The registration guide shows how.
How many quotes should I get?
Two or three is common. Compare scope, not just totals: decking allowance, flashing, tear-off, permit handling and cleanup. Because published guides disagree, a second quote helps you see where the first one sits.
Question not answered here?
Call and ask. A technician will give you a straight answer, even if the answer is that you do not need us.